In its characteristics Xtra Sans is a combination of modern grotesks/grotesques and traditional calligraphy. Its upright and compact letterforms generate a sturdy effect as in the early 20th century grotesks Nobel, Kabel or Erbar. On the contrary, dynamic inside forms (counters) give the characters a fluent appearance. As a result, Xtra Sans stands out in large size, while remaining highly legible in small and long text.

In 2007 Xtra Sans received a Certificate of Excellence in Type Design from Type Directors Club, New York. In 2002, still unpublished, it was awarded a bronze prize at the Morisawa Awards, Tokyo.